J. R. R. Tolkien | First Editions

1892 - 1973

John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, CBE, is best remembered for the creation of 'Middle Earth' and the series of legends and adventures set within, beginning with the acclaimed children's tale The Hobbit (1936) and continuing through the epic trilogy The Lord of the Rings (1954-5) and the posthumously published mythopoeic volume The Silmarilion (1977).

His debut novel The Hobbit is a much-loved masterpiece, and seldom has any book been so widely read and loved as this classic story; its hero, Bilbo Baggins, has taken his place among the ranks of the immortals: Alice, Pooh, Toad... Tolkien's 'Middle-Earth' is a vast mine of treasures and knowledge, its roots delving deep into folklore, mythology and language, and The Hobbit is an ideal introduction to this richly imagined world, which was more fully and complexly realised in 'The Rings' series. This fantastical trilogy, comprising The Fellowship of the Rings, The Two Towers and The Return of the King is regarded as one of the greatest works of the twentieth century, containing amazing details of a new mythology, never really surpassed. It is the basis for the hugely successful film series directed by Peter Jackson, 'The Return' [2003] winning a record 11 Oscars from 11 nominations.

no place, n.d. [ca.2001]. Black and white portrait image of 'Bilbo Baggins' as portrayed by Ian Holm in the Lord of the Rings Film series. Signed by Mr. Holm in silver pen. In an elegant and simple plain mount, ready for framing. Overall dimensions 40 x 34cm. More

Adrian Harrington began trading in 1971, as part of Harrington Brothers in the Chelsea Antiques Market on London's fashionable King's Road. He moved to Kensington Church Street in 1997 and in 2014, after 40+ years of bookselling in the capital, Adrian relocated to the historic Hall's bookshop in Royal Tunbridge Wells, occupying the first floor of this iconic building near The Pantiles area of the town. Hall's remain on the ground floor offering an exceptional range of quality used books and the basement houses a print gallery, providing maps, engravings, posters, photographs and inscribed material. Three generations of Adrian's family are now involved in the running of the business.

Adrian Harrington Rare Books deal in a wide selection of literature, modern first editions, leather bound library sets, children's and illustrated books and fine and rare antiquarian and old books in all fields. We also offer a full and expert bookbinding and restoration service.